“Sidney Niemeyer’s new sequel On the Brink is a captivating cutting-edge technothriller in which he skillfully extends the storylines of his first novel Atomic Peril with a more expansive international intrigue. Nuclear forensic science leads the way by showing how technical or scientific conclusions may inform decision and policy makers. Niemeyer expertly explains key nuclear forensic conclusions in plain language that can be easily understood by non-technical readers.  In national security events, the science is a pristine kernel of unbiased, objective knowledge that can support and impact decisions at the highest levels. On the Brink provides a front-row seat as time-sensitive events unfold. Get ready for an enlightening and gripping journey!”

“On The Brink continues the spine-tingling exploits of Steven Carter, who now operates at the highest levels of the U.S. government. Tasked with investigating simultaneous, high-stakes cases of nuclear and radiological terrorism, Carter and his colleagues race against time to prevent a global nuclear catastrophe. The story captures the urgency of delivering rapid results under extreme pressure and masterfully illustrates the importance of international cooperation for building confidence in nuclear forensics conclusions. Niemeyer excels in making complex nuclear forensics accessible and gripping, making this fast-paced thriller a pleasure to read.”

“No sophomore slump for Niemeyer! This book is even better than his dynamite debut, Atomic Peril. The twists and turns will keep you up late, and you just might learn a thing or two about the fascinating world of nuclear forensics.”

“If you’re looking for a high-stakes thriller that blends cutting-edge science with deeply human storytelling, this novel is a must-read. Set in the tense world of nuclear forensics, the story follows a brilliant but emotionally grounded team of scientists racing against time to prevent global catastrophe. As geopolitical tensions rise and the specter of World War III looms, every clue matters—and the science behind the investigation is as riveting as the danger is real. What sets this novel apart is its emotional depth. The characters are vivid and real, and the father-son relationship at the story’s core is especially powerful—touching, authentic, and beautifully written. Fast-paced, thought-provoking, and genuinely heartfelt, this is a rare blend of scientific intrigue and emotional resonance.  Highly recommended for fans of realistic fiction, nuclear intrigue, and character-driven storytelling.”

“The story starts off with a terrifying event that hits too close to home for nuclear scientist Stephen Carter.  Then things get even worse. It takes a whole of government approach – our scientists, law enforcement and intelligence community, along with international partners – for Stephen to avert further escalation in a world full of tensions. Once I started reading, I could not put the book down.”

“After reading Dr. Niemeyer’s first book, Atomic Peril, I was anticipating twists-&-turns in his second effort, and On the Brink does not disappoint.  The unfolding intrigue involves diverted commercial radioactive materials as well as improvised nuclear weapons.  The pace of this book, 1 month, vs. the 10-month time span of the first book, and the involvement of 50+ characters, caused me to depend on the list of “Main Characters” so that I could keep track of the rapidly-developing plot as I was drawn into the story.  As before, the technical content remains accessible to non-scientists as well as engaging to those from the scientific community.  It is an exciting read.”